In addition to your thoughts, which I agree with, I am of the belief that those who truly _want_ to read/think deeply will do so, and the rest will follow whatever trend is around. In this case, it’s fast paced, quick-hitting content that leaves little room for long articles and processing. But this is how it has always been, isn’t it? Yes there have been (and still are) cultural pockets that place more emphasis on deep thinking than others, but are we to believe that the majority of people used to value deep critical thinking and only recently this trend reversed? I don’t think so.

And, while it may be true that less books are being BOUGHT, it does not mean that less thinking is taking place. Look at the wide variety of mediums we now have. Even a short 10 years ago, if I wanted to take a deep look at a specific theology, I’d have to buy or borrow a text, fumble through words I didn’t really understand, and consult with my physician prior to lifting it from the coffee table to my lap. Today, I can download lectures from colleges across the world on any given topic and access teachings from world renowned preachers, teachers, and philosophers within minutes and listen whenever and wherever I want. Yes, there is an element of distraction, but i have to fight elements of distraction when i sit down with a book as well…

There is certainly something to be said about our lack of critical thinking skills, but in my opinion the issue roots itself at home, in schools, and unfortunately at church; it is only perpetuated by the net.